CHANGE AT TOP FOR HEIDELBERG

The world’s biggest offset press manufacturer Heidelberg will have a new CEO, Jürgen Otto, as current incumbent Dr Ludwin Monz leaves after two years in the job.

Otto, who is currently CEO at German fashion firm s.Oliver Group, and who described Heidelberg as “an icon of German industry”, takes over on 1 July, the day after Monz leaves.

Monz is Heidelberg’s shortest-lasting CEO in recent times. He succeeded Rainer Hunsdorfer, who was in the role for five years. Monz was head of Carl Zeiss Meditec for a decade before he joined Heidelberg.

The chairman of the supervisory board, Dr Martin Sonnenschein, said, "We very much regret Dr Monz's decision to leave Heidelberg. He has decisively advanced our company strategically and operationally, and thus strengthened our foundation in a difficult market environment.

“With Jürgen Otto, we are gaining a proven leader. With his experience and network, we will continue to consistently prepare Heidelberg for the future, as well as increase profitability and further strengthen our significant technological expertise in the printing and packaging industry and beyond.”

Monz said: “I really enjoyed working at Heidelberg. I would like to thank the supervisory board, the management team, and all employees of the company for their good cooperation.”

Heidelberg has also expanded its management board, with David Schmedding, previously head of sales, to join the management board as a new member. As of 1 July, the management board will consist of Jürgen Otto as CEO, current CFO Tania von der Goltz – who continues her role on the board – along with Schmedding as chief sales and service officer.